Problem Pools

We have been asked to remove four pools that were improperly demolished, filled or not completed by others. All of these pools substantially affected the value of the homes.

The first was in Greenbrook, NJ. In that case the court awarded damages to the buyer of approximately 25% of the purchase price of the home including our fees and legal costs. We removed the previously filled pool, separated out debris placed in the hole, demolished the pool, refilled the hole, compacted it and seeded the area.

The second one was located in Long Valley, NJ. Although the home was sold, the buyers attorney would not allow title to pass until the pool problem was corrected. We obtained an EPA and local permit and removed the fill placed in the pool. We had bid on this work the year before but was not awarded the contract due to a price difference of approx. $1,500. We did all the work over. It cost the home owner nearly double and delayed his relocation for three months.

The third home is in Short Hills, NJ. The contractor was slightly cheaper and took a substantial deposit. When he started work he discovered his equipment could not efficiently break 9" concrete. He filed for bankruptcy and took the homeowner's deposit with him. In addition he threw the concrete he broke into the hole, which was an indication that he did not know what he was doing. All of the concrete from this pool had to be removed from the site as required by the local regulation. We removed all of the concrete from the pool hole. The floor of this pool was as thick as 24" in places. We never know what we are going to find. Our equipment can break over 24" concrete with ease.

The fourth problem pool was in Lincroft NJ. Again it was a pool that someone bid the job a little cheaper. The contractor took a 50% deposit, filed for the permit but never picked it up, he started the job, but failed to return. When called he said he was coming back but never returned. Then said he needed more money. When we were called in we found a mess. We called the town to change the contractor's name on the permit only to learn he had never picked up or paid for the permit. So we started from the beginning and filed for the permit. Unfortunately, the home owner lost his deposit plus some additional funds he had given the man. Check your contractor and never give a deposit when the work involved is only service related. Deposits are only required for work when the contractor must purchase materials.

We have appeared as an expert witness twice in law suits to testify on how pools should be demolished.

We know of at least two other swimming pools improperly demolished and filled. Both are causing wet spots. These pools will have to be dug out and demolished, then refilled, compacted, topsoiled and seeded. It will make a giant mess. There is hardly any room to stockpile the dirt removed from the hole. Neither of these homes can presently be sold for their full value.

REGARDLESS WHO REMOVES YOUR POOL, INSIST ON THE FOLLOWING:

1. Detailed contract which clearly spells out the work to be done.2. Don't give a deposit. There are no materials to be purchased.3. Get all the permits required, including the EPA notification. 4. Be sure the town inspector inspects and approves before filling the hole.5. Use only dirt from a new home dig. No highway dirt or used dirt.6. Be sure the contractor is obligated to top soil, seed and clean up his mess.7. Get a warranty against settling. It will cost something but it's worth every dime you pay.

HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU ARE LOCATED, CALL OR WRITE FOR A FREE DISCUSSION. THERE IS MORE TO REMOVING A POOL THAN YOU MIGHT THINK.